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Lighthouse · Fisterra, Galicia
Cabo e Faro de Fisterra
Granite cape that the Romans called finis terrae, the end of the known world, with the lighthouse from 1853 at 143 meters above the sea and the kilometer-zero marker of the camino de Fisterra.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cabo e Faro de Fisterra
The cabo Fisterra is a granite peninsula on the Costa da Morte, about 3 km from the village. In Roman times it was believed the known world ended there, and the name Fisterra comes from the Latin finis terrae, end of the earth. Many people think it is the westernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula, but the cabo da Roca in Portugal and the cabo Touriñán nearby lie further west.
The lighthouse was built in 1853. The tower, of stone with an octagonal base, is 17 meters tall, and the light stands 143 meters above the sea, with a range of more than 23 nautical miles. Because of frequent fog in winter, a siren was installed in 1888, nicknamed Vaca de Fisterra. The coast was the scene of shipwrecks, such as that of the British ship Captain in 1870.
Next to the lighthouse is the stone marker with kilometer 0,000, the symbolic end of the route many pilgrims walk on foot after Santiago. It is tradition to watch the sunset over the Atlantic from the rocks below the lighthouse.
The cape is crowned by the monte do Facho, at 238 meters, with trails and remains of an old hermitage.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 2 hours, including the sunset.
Best time
In the late afternoon, for the sunset over the ocean. On foggy days the view can disappear; check the forecast.
How to get there
It is about 3 km from the village, via the cabo road, about a 45-minute walk or by car, with parking near the lighthouse.
Tip
Bring a jacket, even in summer: the wind at the cabo is usually strong at dusk.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cabo e Faro de Fisterra
Why is the cape called Fisterra?
It comes from the Latin finis terrae, 'end of the earth', because the Romans believed the known world ended there.
When does the Fisterra lighthouse date from?
From 1853. The light stands 143 metres above the sea.
What's the best time to go to the cape?
In the late afternoon, for the sunset over the Atlantic.